Gani Stevens to lead UP Fighting Maroons in UAAP Season 88

Gani Stevens is expected to be a key player for the UP Fighting Maroons in UAAP Season 88, stepping into a larger role following the departures of Quentin Millora-Brown and Seven Gagate.

Millora-Brown has turned professional with the Macau Black Bears, while Gagate transferred to De La Salle University, leaving Stevens, Sean Alter, and Francis Nnoruka as primary options for the center and power forward positions.

Stevens sees these exits as an opportunity for the remaining players to elevate their game and become anchors for the team, also motivating other big men like Sean Alter.

However, the new article highlights that UP will be banking on a collective effort due to the departure of several stars, including Francis Lopez and JD Cagulangan, in their title-retention campaign.

Assistant coach Christian Luanzon stated that players like Harold Alarcon, Reyland Torres, Janjan Felicilda, Gerry Abadiano, and Terrence Fortea are now expected to step up.

The UP Fighting Maroons will begin their title defense against the University of Santo Tomas, who will be without the suspended Forthsky Padrigao.